The skills versus degree debate has been going on for quite a long time. In some instances, it would seem like getting a degree is the most important thing for securing a job and achieving professional growth. However, the unemployment rate tells us a different story. Despite being graduated and possessing a degree, many young people are unable to find a job in the market as they do not possess the required skills that are in demand in this new working age.

Still, a very important question arises when we hear that skills are more important than a degree. We begin to sometimes question the value of education versus the value of skills. Are skills alone enough? If yes, why go to college and university and get as much education?

Importance of College degree:

A college degree is a dream of many. It is a very significant milestone in the professional lives of many people. Given below is a list of some of the most important benefits of a college degree:

1. Increases the Range of Professional opportunities:

A college degree opens up many new opportunities. Such opportunities would have not been there had the individual not possessed a college degree. This degree enables you to qualify for other such additional opportunities making your career flexible.

Moreover, while pursuing a degree, you come across many people and build connections. These connections play a very important role in helping you achieve professional growth.

2. Aids in preparing for specialization in different career paths:

Education, health and technology are the three most rapidly growing fields in the job market. To specialize in any of these fields requires a minimum bachelor’s degree in the specific field. Moreover, many college degrees like law, medicine and engineering are pursued with the intention of acquiring a job in the same field and hence such fields require a mandatory college degree.

3. Helps in Professional Growth:

Getting a college degree is empowering as it boosts your confidence and instils a sense of growth and achievement. In this pursuit of a college degree, you also get equipped to learn and tackle various complex challenges and successfully overcome adversities. A college degree also increases happiness and reduces stress. Degree holders are also more involved in the community and are more likely to volunteer, vote, indulge in various charities and join community organizations, thereby contributing more to society.

Importance of Skills

1. Progression in career and faster promotion:

Possessing the desired skill set is very beneficial in increasing one’s chances of getting promoted. According to research,  there is a higher chance of employers recruiting employees whose skills are more vast and developed.

2. Our modern workplace is based on active soft skills:

Soft skills such as listening, communication, collaboration, presentation of ideas are much valued in today’s modern workplace. Strong soft skills entail a collaborative, healthy and productive work environment in which everyone can work to develop themselves to the best of their ability.

3. Skills are on demand in the market: both customers and employers

On both ends of the spectrum, skills are a necessity. Customers look for services that include the required skills. Even employers want people who already possess these skills so that they can grow their businesses and make more profit.

Read about some customer serving skills that can help you get a job.

4. The future depends on skills

Artificial intelligence and automation are the new ways in which things are now being done. These areas rely heavily on both hard skills and soft skills. Gaining these skills are now more essential than before.

Types of professional skills that are in demand:

Professionals skills are those that help you succeed in your professional path.  They could either be soft skills or hard or technical skills. When we talk of hard skills, in some instances, a college degree may not be a requirement.

Hard skills:

Hard skills are those in which specific knowledge is required for success in a given job. Such skills can be measured, defined and evaluated. Some examples of hard skills are:

1. Blockchain technology
2. Technical Writing.
3. Analytical Reasoning
4. Cloud Computing
5. UX Design
6. Scientific Computing
7. Business Analysis
8. Analytics
9. Affiliate Marketing
10. Administration

Soft Skills:

Soft skills are those personality traits that have an impact on interpersonal interactions and daily productivity. Even though they are different from hard skills, they are equally important in one’s professional life. Some examples of soft skills are:

1. Leadership
2. Confidence
3. Accountability
4. People management
5. Coaching
6. Prioritization
7. Motivational skills
8. Teamwork.
9. Project management

Work experience vs college degree?

When it comes to the job market, both work experience and degree are important. However, many companies now look for employees who have prior work experience. Such people with prior work experience often have an upper hand in the job market because of the fact that they already possess all the necessary skills that the employer is looking for. If the employer were to hire a fresh graduate, he would have to train the graduate in the desired skills and this is often seen by many employers as troublesome. 

Hence, skills end up having the upper hand while a degree can sometimes take a backseat. Learning skills has become quite easy with our training institute in Australia. Join now and make the path towards your desired job shorter.